Today, the coronial inquest into David Dungay’s death delivered its findings.
Dhungutti man, Dungay, was killed at Long Bay Gaol in 2015, when set upon and forcibly restrained by a group of prison officers after he refused to hand over a packet of biscuits. “I can’t breathe” were some of his last few words.
Deputy State Coroner Derek Lee did not find any of the five prison officers involved in the action, nor any other correctional services employee involved, responsible or liable, although he did note that the force used by the officers was a contributing factor to Dungay’s death.
For the Dungay family, the findings offered no respite. His nephew, Paul Silva confronted NSW Corrections Services Commissioner, Peter Severin, as he left the court, to demand an apology for the death of his uncle. The Commissioner declined to respond.
Speaking to the media, Dungay’s mother, Leetona, said she was “disgusted” by the result. “I’m his mother and I want justice,” she said, “I am going to fight until I live in a country where black lives matter”.
The family intends to continue their long pursuit for justice.
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